Freak flooding hits Linlithgow streets

Flash flooding caused chaos in Linlithgow as the High Street turned into an extension of the Loch and tarmac was raised from the road.

Thing were at their worst on Friday when the thunderstorm that rumbled all day produced a 15 minute monsoon.

A foot of water flooded the Football and Cricketers pub, and manager David Paterson said: “I have lived in Linlithgow for 44 years and I have never seen anything like this.”

Sandbags at the Cancer Research UK shop were overwhelmed, causing staff to try and stem the flow with old clothing stock but they were unable to prevent thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Sheena Addison, assistant manager, said: “No drains could cope with the water and it lifted the tarmac on Dog Well Wynd.

‘‘The ground outside is higher than on the inside so this keeps happening. We also worry as we have older volunteers in the shop who could be affected.”

She praised West Lothian Council who this week removed water, put in driers, and provided padding for floods expected on Wednesday night.

A council spokesman said: “The council has already increased the level of the kerb, however as vehicular access is needed it cannot be raised further. There is no repair which will instantly resolve this situation. Any works to help alleviate flooding affecting the rear of the building are likely to be structural.

‘‘Given the steepness of the lane and the intensity of recent rainfall, there is no guarantee the problem can be eliminated. We are currently assessing what, if any, solutions may be available.”